You can continue to the summit of Green Knob (the ultimate culmination of the Snooks Nose ridge) via a 0.2 mi section of the Green Knob trail, located about 100 yards north along the Parkway on the left. It then descends a bit before climbing yet again to reach the Blue Ridge Parkway at the Green overlook. However, if you really want to earn summit bragging rights, the trail does continue up the ridge to cross 4300 ft Laurel Knob. Many people make an out-and-back hike with 3625 ft Snooks Nose as the destination, making for a hike of about 4 miles and a 1775 ft climb. Views from Snooks Nose are fantastic, mostly to the east toward Linville Gorge and to the west toward the Blue Ridge and Black Mountains. After a pronounced turn to the north, the trail pops out of the denser forest onto the exposed ridge called Snooks Nose. This section is narrower, and passes through switchbacks, easing the grade somewhat. The steepest part of the climb is yet to come.Īfter resuming the super-steep climb on the old logging road system, the trail passes a large rock face on the left, then transitions into a purpose-built trail which is much more comfortable to hike. The trail then levels out some, but only briefly. After passing Slick Falls on the right - which is nearly impossible to get a good view of - the trail curves across a ridge, where there is a small clearing and junction of old roads. This is one steep trail! There are a few switchbacks, but they don't minimize the grade much at all. Starting the Curtis Creek campground, the trail winds its way into the cove containing Slick Falls Branch on an old logging road, and then begins its signature climb.
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